A HIGH TECHNOLOGY VERMICOMPOSTING REACTOR: PRODUCT TESTING AND COMMERCIALIZATION

Disposal of organic wastes, including animal, food garden and industrial wastes, is expensive and can create environmental problems. High technology vermicomposting systems can convert such wastes into valuable horticultural growth media or soil amendments. The value of these to the horticultural industry was demonstrated clearly in Phase I research. The Oregon Soil Corporation has operated a continuous flow reactor that will process 1000 tons of waste a year for six years. Oregon Soil Corporation proposes the following research in Phase II. Improvements of the high technology reactor design, operation and efficiency. Assessment and minimization of human pathogen, plant disease and weed seed carry-over during the vermicomposting process. Field plant growth trails of annual and perennial crops to ascertain optimum rates of addition and placement of vermicomposts for field crops. Obtaining maximum economic returns from vermicomposts. Quality standards for vermicomposts to maintain minimum product variability. Formulation, processing and amending vermicomposts for marketing. Market survey to identify major profitable outlets for sale of vermicomposts. During Phase II research, Oregon Soil Corporation plans to build two more reactors for its own operations and supply reactors to five commercial organizations who have agreed to adopt the technology.